Testing & Diagnosis for Congenital Cytomegalovirus in Children

Tests

The first step in treating your child is forming an accurate and complete diagnosis.

Most CMV infections in the mother are not diagnosed because the virus produces few symptoms. However, the virus can be detected using the following tests:

· Blood test — checking for antibodies in the mother’s bloodstream

· Swab culture — taking a sample with a cotton swab from the throat of the mother or the baby
· Urine test — checking the urine of the mother or the baby

If you are pregnant and know that you’ve had CMV in the past or know that you’re currently infected, ask your doctor to perform a test.

After we complete all necessary tests, Children’s Hospital Boston’s experts meet to review and discuss what they have learned. Then we will meet with you and your family to discuss the results and outline the best treatment options.

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